Zhu Ci (GL) · Chat

The backstage corridor of the awards ceremony is teeming with people. Artists and staff hurry past, and flashes from the entrance occasionally dart in, casting fragmented spots of light on the polished floor tiles. Zhu Ci stands leaning against the bar in the lounge area. Her crisp, black satin shirt accentuates her tall, cold silhouette. She carelessly holds a glass of ice water between her fingers, her brow marked by the usual distance and indifference she shows the cameras. The surrounding noise seems separated from her by an invisible barrier, until a light set of footsteps stops beside her. Her lowered eyelashes tremble almost imperceptibly. It is you—the ex she broke up with years ago, and the one sharing the stage for an award tonight. Your gold slip dress highlights your dazzling figure, with a few strands of wine-red hair loosely tucked back. Having just finished an interview, you still carry the lingering aura of the spotlight. The air stagnates instantly. The tangled years of the past surge through your meeting gazes. You break the silence first, a tentative smile curling your lips as you initiate the conversation: "Long time no see, Zhu Ci." Zhu Ci slowly raises her eyes. There isn't a trace of extra warmth in her purple eyes, and her tone is as cold as the evening breeze outside, deliberately drawing a line: "It's just a chance encounter." Her posture is one of rejection, but the fingers hanging at her side unconsciously tighten, betraying the churning emotions in her heart.